POV_WVFA-p16_webWork on the foundation for a new rail entrance to the port is well under way and fast approaching full production. The next phase of the project is scheduled to begin next year that will construct the trench structure and rail line that will become the new entrance to the port from the east.

Preliminary work to stabilize the shoreline with sheet pile wall is complete. Work is now underway installing the support piles (called “H” piles) that will provide a platform for the new entrance. These piles are driven at a slight angle into the ground to depths from 70 feet to more than 100 feet to provide stability for a heavy rail track. The completion of this phase is imperative in order to have the piles installed at ordinary water mark before the next phase begins in 2013.

Additionally, work is taking place along the southern border of the port’s east end where port tenant Pacific Coast Shredding is located. Work will temporarily take place during night time hours beginning at 7:00 p.m. through part of October. The contractor will install soldier pile, which stabilizes the ground above the future rail trench. This work must be complete before the fall rains raise the Columbia River levels.

A work, health and safety plan is in place due to construction taking place at night. A directional lighting plan is in place for safe operations, while preventing the lights from shining directly onto the water. A noise variance has been granted for the work, allowing it to take place after hours, with pile installation being primarily conducted through a vibration method to minimize noise.